"Pilots of Leh-based IAF Helicopter Unit, nicknamed 'Siachen Pioneers' evacuated two foreign nationals, Czech brothers Lucas and Tomas Pfeifer from the higher reaches of Padam valley in Zanskar ranges of Ladakh region on August 5," a Defence spokesman said.
The two were crossing a river near Testha village in Zanskar valley when Lucas was injured in a fall resulting in knee fracture and ligament tear, rendering him completely immobile, the spokesman said.
His brother Tomas also sustained injuries while trying to prevent Lucas from falling, he said, adding that their state, the inclement weather of the region and their remote location forced the team to request for emergency air rescue through their embassy and J&K government.
The rescue team was led by Wg Cdr D C Tiwari and comprised Sqn Ldr S Agarwal, Flt Lt Maneesh Singh and Flt Lt C Shekhawat.
